Zaheer Khan, born on October 8, 1978, emerged as a formidable force in Indian cricket. Starting in 2000, he represented India with distinction until 2014.
As a fast-medium left-arm bowler, he quickly became the backbone of India’s pace attack. Zaheer’s career, marked by its ups and downs, included notable achievements and challenging injuries.
He started with fierce seam and pace bowling, famous for his deadly yorkers. Zaheer played a key role in India’s wins in the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2011 World Cup, where he was a top wicket-taker.
Recognizing his talent, India awarded him the Arjuna Award in 2011 and the Padma Shri in 2020.
Zaheer also played in England for Worcestershire, showing off his ball-moving skills and reverse swing. He retired in 2015, but not before making a mark in both international and Indian cricket.
Notably, he was a master at dismissing left-hand batsmen, trailing only behind Muttiah Muralitharan and Shaun Pollock in this skill. Zaheer’s legacy in cricket is marked by his exceptional skill and dedication to the game.
Key Takeaways
Hide- Zaheer's Bowling Mastery: Known for his reverse swing and fast inch-perfect yorkers.
- Crucial Wins for India: Played a key role in India's victories in the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy and 2011 World Cup.
- Awards and Recognition: Received the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri for his contributions to cricket.
- ProSport Fitness & Services: Founded in 2014 to offer fitness and physiotherapy services.
- International and IPL Stints: Excelled in both international cricket and the Indian Premier League.
- Coaching and Mentoring: Transitioned into a coaching role post-retirement.
- Personal Life: Married to actress Sagarika Ghatge, highlighting his life beyond cricket.
Zaheer Khan’s Early and Personal Life
Zaheer Khan’s story began in Shrirampur, a small town in Maharashtra, India. Born on October 8, 1978, to Zakia and Bakhtiyar Khan, he grew up in a Marathi Muslim family.
His elder brother Zeeshan and younger brother Anees were his early playmates. Zaheer’s cricketing journey kicked off under the guidance of coach Utsav Yadav.
He attended New Marathi Primary School, followed by K.J. Somaiyya Secondary School, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Additionally, Zaheer honed his skills at the local Revenue Colony Cricket Club (RCC) in Shrirampur. His talent soon led him to Pune, where his cricket career took flight.
Zaheer’s personal life also blossomed beautifully. On April 24, 2017, he took to Twitter to announce his engagement to actress Sagarika Ghatge. The couple tied the knot on November 23, 2017, marking a new chapter in his life.
This journey from a small-town boy to a cricketing superstar and a loving husband encapsulates the essence of Zaheer Khan’s remarkable life.
Zaheer Khan: Mumbai’s New Star
Zaheer Khan’s journey began in 1996 when he moved to Mumbai. Joining the National Cricket Club, he competed in top-tier leagues like the Kanga Cricket League and the Purshottam Shield.
His remarkable performance in a Comrade Shield game remains etched in memory.
Here, Zaheer displayed his mastery by reverse swinging a well-worn 50-over-old ball and bowling ten maiden overs, leading his team to victory.
Dual Threat: Bowling and Batting
Not just a bowler, Zaheer also shone with the bat. In a memorable partnership, he scored an unbeaten 62, steering his team to a win in a nail-biting match.
His prowess peaked with a 7/74 spell against Shivaji Park Gymkhana, showcasing his bowling dominance.
Ascending the Ranks at Baroda
Upon recommendation from T. A. Sekhar, Zaheer joined Baroda. His breakthrough came in the 2000–01 Ranji Trophy final against Railways.
Zaheer’s remarkable 8/145 in the match, including a 5/16 in the second innings, clinched the man of the match award and led Baroda to a historic victory.
Return to Mumbai and Domination
In 2006, Zaheer returned to Mumbai. His debut season was marked by a staggering 9-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy final, crucial in Mumbai’s triumph over Bengal.
International Fame with Worcestershire
Zaheer’s international exploits began in 2005 with Worcestershire County Cricket Club in England.
He replaced Shoaib Akhtar and marked his debut with a sensational ten-wicket haul against Somerset. His near-record-breaking 9/138 against Essex showcased his exceptional bowling skill.
A New Chapter in IPL
Zaheer’s domestic career expanded as he played for the Royal Challengers and Mumbai Indians. In the 2015 auction, he was picked by the Delhi Daredevils, a move that added another feather to his cap. As the captain in 2016 and 2017, he led the Daredevils adeptly.
Milestone Achievements
At 38, Zaheer achieved a remarkable milestone in the 2017 IPL season. He became the 10th bowler and 8th Indian to claim 100 wickets in the league, a testament to his enduring prowess and resilience in the sport.
Zaheer Khan: A Journey Through International Cricket
Early Beginnings
Zaheer Khan’s cricketing journey took a significant leap in 2000. He joined the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore, swiftly making his Test debut against Bangladesh.
His ODI debut against Kenya during the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy followed suit.
Battling for a Spot
Zaheer faced challenges in retaining his spot in the national team by late 2005. New talents like Sreesanth and R. P. Singh emerged, making the competition fierce.
Consequently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India downgraded his contract. Despite this, he made a comeback during the 2005 Pakistan tour, although the team struggled with a lack of variety in its bowling attack.
A Strong Comeback
2006 marked Zaheer’s impressive return to the Indian team for the South Africa tour. This recall came amidst Irfan Pathan’s form slump and Munaf Patel’s injury.
Zaheer’s consistent performances earned him a spot in the squad for the 2007 World Cup. He even clinched the Man of the Match award in the 2008–2009 India-Australia Test series, thanks to his all-around skills.
ODI Highlights
In ODIs, Zaheer took 282 wickets, averaging just over 29 runs per wicket. He was crucial in India reaching the 2003 World Cup finals, finishing as the fourth highest wicket-taker.
His ODI achievements place him as the fourth highest wicket-taker for India, following legends like Anil Kumble and Javagal Srinath.
Test Cricket Triumphs
Zaheer’s Test career was equally remarkable, with 311 wickets at an average of just over 32 runs. His 300th test wicket was South African star Jacques Kallis.
However, an injury during the 2003 Australia Test marked a downturn, leading to his absence from early 2004 tours.
Record-Breaking Performances
In 2004, Zaheer set a world record for the highest Test score by a number 11, scoring 75 against Bangladesh. This record stood until broken by Tino Best and later Ashton Agar.
Pioneering the Knuckle Ball
Zaheer introduced the knuckle ball in 2011, using it effectively to secure crucial wickets in the World Cup. He credits this innovative delivery for his success, particularly in the 2011 World Cup.
World Cup Glory
With 44 World Cup wickets, Zaheer ranks ninth among the highest wicket-takers in the event. His 21 scalps in the 2011 World Cup tied him as the joint highest wicket-taker with Shahid Afridi.
Final Years and Retirement
Zaheer’s later career was marred by injuries, leading to his withdrawal from England’s 2011 tour. He retired from international and first-class cricket in October 2015, planning to conclude with IPL 9.
Transition to Coaching
Post-retirement, Zaheer transitioned to a coaching role, appointed as a bowling consultant for the India national cricket team in 2017.
His rich experience continues to influence and shape upcoming talents in Indian cricket.
Zaheer Khan’s Leap into Fitness: ProSport Fitness & Services
In 2014, Zaheer Khan ventured beyond the cricket pitch, launching ProSport Fitness and Services in Mumbai. This innovative fitness and sports company revolutionizes training and physiotherapy services.
Collaborating with experts like Andrew Leipus and Adrian Le Roux, the center embodies a vision to “maximize potential.”
Zaheer’s mission focuses on introducing world-class fitness programs to India, particularly for sports injury management.
ProSport stands out with its scientifically designed programs and treatments. Additionally, the center actively conducts workshops and sessions.
These events target corporates and schools, aiming to elevate awareness about physical fitness.
Zaheer’s initiative marks a significant stride in promoting health and wellness, transcending the boundaries of conventional sports training.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What were the highlights of Zaheer Khan's cricketing career?
Zaheer Khan was renowned for his fast-medium left-arm bowling. He played a crucial role in India’s wins in the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2011 World Cup. He was also a top wicket-taker and received the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri.
When did Zaheer Khan retire, and what were his major achievements?
Zaheer retired from international and first-class cricket in October 2015. His career highlights include 311 Test and 282 ODI wickets, and he was a master at dismissing left-hand batsmen.
How did Zaheer Khan contribute to Indian cricket after retirement?
Post-retirement, Zaheer transitioned into coaching, becoming a bowling consultant for the Indian national cricket team in 2017, sharing his rich experience with upcoming talents.
